Crabgrass Prevention

Crabgrass is a common weed problem in many areas, including St. Louis. The climate and growing conditions in St. Louis can be favorable for crabgrass to thrive. To effectively deal with crabgrass in St. Louis, you can follow the prevention and control methods mentioned earlier. Here are a few additional tips specific to dealing with crabgrass in St. Louis:

• Timing: In St. Louis, crabgrass typically begins to germinate in late spring when soil temperatures rise. It’s crucial to apply pre-emergent herbicides before the germination period. Monitor soil temperatures using a soil thermometer and apply the herbicide when the soil reaches around 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (13 to 16 degrees Celsius) for several consecutive days.
• Cool-season grasses: St. Louis has a transition zone climate, which means both warm-season and cool-season grasses can be grown. However, cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue are more commonly used. These grasses have better tolerance to the cooler spring and fall seasons when crabgrass is most prevalent.
• Watering and irrigation: Proper watering is essential to maintain a healthy lawn and reduce crabgrass growth. In St. Louis, it’s recommended to water cool-season grasses deeply but infrequently, providing around 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Watering deeply encourages deep root growth in the grass, making it more competitive against crabgrass.
• Lawn maintenance: Regular lawn care practices such as mowing, fertilizing, and overseeding are important for crabgrass prevention. Maintain a proper mowing height of 2.5 to 3.5 inches for cool-season grasses, and avoid scalping the lawn, as it can create bare spots that crabgrass can invade. Fertilize according to the needs of your specific grass type, as healthy, dense grass is better able to resist crabgrass invasion.
• Post-emergent control: If crabgrass has already emerged in your lawn, you can use post-emergent herbicides specifically designed to target and kill crabgrass. These herbicides are applied directly to the weed and are best used when the crabgrass is actively growing. Follow the instructions on the product carefully and spot treat as needed.

Remember to always read and follow the instructions on herbicide labels, as they provide specific guidance on application rates and safety precautions. St. Louis Lawn Care professionals are knowledgeable on the products we use and are dedicated to keeping your lawn clean and healthy.